New director appointed for Friends of the Zoo

The Friends of the Zoo Board of Directors has appointed a new director.

Allyson Tuckness, who has more than 18 years of experience in the nonprofit field, was selected for the role, according to a news release. Friends of the Zoo, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, supports Dickerson Park Zoo via fundraising events, planned giving and other initiatives.

“During the interview process, the selection committee was impressed with Allyson’s experience with nonprofit organizations and her commitment to our community. We are excited for the future development of the zoo and its conservation efforts,” Friends of the Zoo board President Mark Gelner said in the release.

Tuckness succeeds the retiring Don Tillman, who led Friends of the Zoo for more than two decades, said zoo spokesperson Joey Powell. Tuckness' LinkedIn profile indicates she started with Friends of the Zoo this month.

Tuckness most recently worked with Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks for over eight years, the last four as chief operating officer, according to the release.